by A.E.Sanchez

Created on: April 10, 2011   Last Updated: April 11, 2011

I grew up in Philadelphia, home to some great museums, including The Academy of Natural Sciences, The Franklin Institute and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Every time I went to one of these I saw something different and learned something new. These places were always amazing. Many of the sights and sounds were familiar to me after going so often. However, there were new things to see as well. Maybe a few visits were planned but most visits were spontaneous but regardless the planning time I learned a few things to make the most of any visit.

First think like an explorer choose a museum that both excites and challenges you. Research before you go, check their website to see current collections and exhibits. Could you see yourself spending a good amount of time there? After all this is your experience and you need to make the most of it.

Second, find out what types of tours they offer. Do they offer group tours and self-guided tours? When I was younger, I went to a museum and they had a self- guided tour that required me to look at different pieces of art using a scavenger hunt. I had a blast and so did my niece and we saw the art in a new way. If you decide to explore on your own take a look at their floor plan so you can make the most of your visit.

Third, check out prices for admissions and parking. Find out if they have special events and are those events included in the admissions’ price. Find out where you can park. Is there a garage, on street parking, or meter parking? If you have to use meter parking check your times. You don’t want to ruin your fun time by returning to a parking ticket.

Fourth, plan for your entire group. Pack snacks if you bring kids. Make sure they know proper museum etiquette like voice volume and the no touching rule. If there aren’t kids tagging along make sure everyone in your group knows where to eat, where to park, and where to meet if you decide to go your separate ways. Find out if photographs are allowed.

Finally, have fun and go somewhere you wouldn’t normally think of. You would be surprised at what catches your attention or what you might learn by stepping outside of your box. My visits have gone from learning about science, nature, or history to experience arts from ancient cultures to visiting a ship and submarine that has been turned into a museum. 

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